September 27, 2011 – WiTricity Corp., IHI Corp. and Mitsubishi Motors Corp. are joining forces to research and develop “easily deployable” electric vehicle (EV) wireless charging systems. The partnership aims to accelerate the popularity of wireless charging by developing systems that are usable “right out of the box” for individuals, governments and other entities, including power companies.

“Electric vehicles offer great potential for reducing CO2 emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. However, they must be user friendly, and wireless charging is an important feature that greatly improves the user experience,” said WiTricity CEO, Eric Giler, about the new collaboration.

Wireless charging systems allow the transfer of energy from a source placed on or under the ground to a vehicle equipped with an energy capture device. Charging occurs automatically when the vehicle is parked, with no physical contact between the vehicle and the charging source. WiTricity says its patented magnetic resonance wireless charging system can deliver up to 3.3 kW of charging power over distance of about 8 inches at an efficiency rate of more than 90% in manner that is safe and very user friendly.

The partners have unveiled there 3-Step process:

1. Find the most appropriate and easiest ways of incorporating wireless charging systems into EV charging infrastructure.
2. Clarifying legal matters regarding the new technology, and create proposals for rules governing the use of such systems.
3. Test wireless charging systems with EVs fitted with power charging receptors internally.

PHOTO: Magnetic resonance wireless charging system: the process is similar to when a singer projects just the right sound to shatter a wine glass.